Wynnum Library and Woolworths development underway

Works are set to begin this month on a new development that will house a new community library for Wynnum as well as a retail space to be occupied by major supermarket retailer, Woolworths.

The redevelopment of the former Wynnum Central State School site on Florence Street will deliver a vibrant new precinct in Wynnum Central, with community facilities, a commercial precinct, park space and a new library.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, who today turned the sod on the development, said the landmark development project was being undertaken by the City of Brisbane Corporation (CBIC) under an innovative self-funding model.

“This $4.25 million project will see a new 2,000 square metre library, three times larger than the existing Wynnum Library, delivered at no cost to Brisbane ratepayers,” Cr Quirk said.

“The new Wynnum Library will be more than three times larger than the current facility and will include an outdoor terrace, meeting rooms, a children’s area and a history collections area.

“Through the project, the Wynnum-Manly community will also benefit from a new major retailer opening their doors, with the majority of the 3,000 square meters of retail space to accommodate a new Woolworths supermarket.

“Delivering a major national retailer to Wynnum forms part of my economic blueprint to revitalise Wynnum’s local economy and create new jobs.

“This is a major project that will create many jobs throughout the construction of the commercial stage of the development, with even more permanent jobs once Woolworths opens.

“This is a major project that will create more than 180 jobs throughout the construction of the commercial stage of the development, with many more permanent jobs once Woolworths opens.

Woolworths Local Group Manager, Michael Lange said: “Woolworths is looking forward to delivering this project in partnership with the City of Brisbane Investment Corporation.

“The Woolworths store will provide local shoppers with exceptional choice, value and convenience. The store will be build to the latest designs and will create more than 110 new local job opportunities, including full time, part time and casual roles,” he said.

The development and construction of the commercial precinct on the western side of the site will be managed by CBIC and Woolworths and will deliver car parking facilities that will accommodate Woolworths, the Wynnum Library and the Wynnum Community Centre.

Cr Quirk said that refurbishment works for the heritage “Big Red” Community Centre were also set to begin in coming weeks.

“In addition to a new Wynnum Library, Council will also deliver an upgraded accessible community centre that will include spaces for community groups, a shared kitchen, toilet facilities and a new elevator,” he said.

Refurbishment of the community centre is expected to be completed later this year, with the commercial precinct expected to be complete by early 2016, weather permitting. Works will be undertaken between 7am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday.

For more information about the project, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or phone Council on (07) 3403 8888.